The Love Language at Strange Matter

Friday, Aug. 2. 5 p.m.

The Love Language makes pure pop for now people. For the same reasons that made Nick Lowe’s American debut such an intoxicating listen back in 1978, Raleigh, N.C., singer and songwriter Stuart McLamb’s wide-eared enthusiasm for the history of the hook are what makes his third Merge studio album such an infectious listen. Mixing the sonic pop inclinations of Husker Du, Arcade Fire’s anthemic indie-rock offerings and Phil Spector’s wall of sound, McLamb’s shrewdly polished tunes convey a sense of timelessness without losing their distinctive, ever-evolving voice. The Love Language comes to town Friday with Roanoke rockers Eternal Summer at Strange Matter, 929 W. Grace St. Doors for the all-ages show open at 5 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. strangematterrva.com.— Chris Bopst